April 04, 2019

Rep. Kilmer Statement in Support of H.R. 1585, the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2019

Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) released the following statement in response to his vote in support of the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act (VAWA) of 2019 (H.R. 1585). This bill will safeguard and build upon life-saving protections for people throughout Washington state and across the country. The measure was adopted with strong bipartisan support, 263-158.

“Domestic violence is real and no one should ever suffer in silence in the face of abuse,” said Rep. Kilmer. “I’m proud to support a full, long-term, bipartisan reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act to ensure Congress does everything in its power to protect Americans from violence and abuse, while ensuring that survivors have access to essential services and justice. This bill will make some vital improvements to address gaps in current law, based on extensive consultation with victim service providers, law enforcement, and other experts. With today’s vote, we are expanding housing protections and financial assistance for victims and survivors, as well as improving protections for Native American women and children in my region.”